#VINTAGE LOVE My Life as a Fashion Model: Confessions of a +40 Something Regarding Life in Front of the Camera

No one recognizes me on the street, probably because I am in no way famous.

When I was younger, I remember a number of people coming up to tell me that I was beautiful, and why wasn't I a model? I realized that it was meant to be a compliment- that question, "are you a model?" I remember saying I'd rather look like the rich women who could afford to buy the outfits, than to look like a model. It was a profession that never was tempting to me, personally.

I'm not the typical fashion model material. I'm 5'6" and have crooked teeth,
permanent dark circles under my eyes (there since childhood) and a few
curves too many to make a perfect clothes horse.

Trust me, when I started the Citizen Rosebud project, the last thing I wanted to do was pose in front of the camera, so it's funny that it turned out this way. Six years in, I am open to finding a few models to use, and am much more comfortable behind the lens than prancing about in front of it. But Mother/Necessity, etc, etc, being being what it is, when I couldn't find a willing victim to shoot, I had to step up. And stepped in front of the camera.It's an odd thing, taking your own photos. You see, I play both fashion model and fashion photographer. And I do my own editing- which, thanks to PicMonkey, I enjoy quite a bit. It's doubly strange to be your own model and photographer- major meta. Life loops in on itself, and perspective gets a bit, uh, weird.

When the going get weird, the weird turn pro. Full time vintage seller makes me a part time fashion model.

It is especially strange to see my own mug staring out at me over on the shop. W-I-E-R-D. So let me put this out there, if there's a Seattle soul who'd be interested in modeling for me, PLEASE CONTACT ME. I am open to that idea. Because cavorting in front of the camera, modeling vintage and pre-loved clothing is kind of a strange job. And I do it. There ya go- at the ripe old age of 48 and counting, I am a fashion model.

But, ya know what? Strange as it may be, I'm enjoying the fact that this falls under my umbrella of life experience. What a gas. So if you're looking for some encouragement to get out of your own comfort level, and put yourself and your dreams front and center, I say DO IT! And, as "the"y say, we more often regret the things we didn't do, than regret the things we did.

Your life in front of the camera has inspired me for years, Bella. Which includes your editing, of course. And your amazing creativity. Thank you for sharing your gorgeous red hat with white trim with Hat Attack!

Oh Bella I love your self-portraits even if they are for the shop. They are always so inspiring & show your beauty. Tiny me (I'm barely 5') used to do loads of modeling when I was in my 20s, but all for fashion shows. I hate being photographed! But the actress in me loves being on stage! Now while I've learned a little more (with my lovely teen daughter who is a fantastic photographer) I can do a little here and there, but still camera shy! Be proud of yourself, you're a beautiful over 40 woman and as well as model! XXX <3

dear lady, you're way more gorgeous than those teen girls used to show us some clothes!, because you've got the Attitude!, and you're damn beautiful!you look so cute wearing that floral dress and red umbrella!, and your little red hat!!You Rock!besos

Bella - you are a very striking woman, and I think you look wonderful in front of the camera! It is a weird thing for us "older women" when you think about it, this blogging thing, posting photos of yourself on the internet. I used to hate having my photo taken because of my very crooked teeth, and yet I've learned to "strike a pose" whenever someone asks if they can take my photo. I think all of the members of our 40+ blogging circle are so much more interesting to look at then any of the models on the runway.

You learn a lot about yourself when you start taking outfit photos. And it does take guts to put yourself out there. I know it helped my confidence levels for sure. I use picmonkey, too! I love your outfit shots. They are fun and creative. Bella, if you start using models, I still hope to see you out there, too! Debbie

I am glad you found an outlet but... to say that Picmonkey is sufficient enough to be a model and even worse as a photographer is unbelievable. I have no idea why you would not spend he $10 a month and get Photoshop if you are serious about photography but it is all your choice, just don't get it myself.

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